The MoD will receive an upgraded version of the Ka-52, Borisov said on 6 February after a meeting at the Arseniev-based Progress Aviation Company, a subsidiary of Rostec’s Russian Helicopters. “This will be a new modification, and we have discussed the introduction of the required changes by our designers.” He pointed out that the Ka-52 is being upgraded based on combat experience gained in Syria.

Borisov added that new extended-range missiles are being designed for the helicopter, which will also receive an updated targeting system. The Ka-52 is currently armed with Vikhr-1 and Ataka anti-tank guided missiles.

Russia’s Aerospace Forces (VKS) are slated to take delivery of six new Ka-52 helicopters in 2018. In 2017, the service received 16 Ka-52s. Under the current contract, the Russian military will have received 146 Ka-52s by 2020.

Meanwhile, the military is planning to receive a high-speed helicopter. “The current GPV envisages work on the development of a high-speed rotary-wing platform. A cruising speed of 350–400 km/h would meet our requirements,” Borisov said during his visit to Progress.

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